BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
A delegation from Bolton Group and Tri Marine, leading players in the tuna and seafood supply chain, paid a courtesy visit on Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele.
A statement from the Press Secretariat of the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) yesterday said Bolton and Tri Marine jointly own and operate National Fisheries Development (NFD) and maintain a substantial shareholding in SolTuna Limited, based in Noro.
During their visit to the Prime Minister’s office, the delegation delivered a comprehensive briefing that outlined the evolution of their operations in Solomon Islands, their current footprint, as well as emerging operational pressures facing the sector.
They also expressed appreciation to the government, particularly the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) for maintaining an enabling legislative environment and consistent institutional support.
The government was also acknowledged for tangible improvements in public service delivery in Noro, reflecting broader gains in local infrastructure and governance.
As a cornerstone investor in the country, the company highlighted its status as the country’s largest private-sector employer.
The statement said operationally, the company reported to an average daily production of approximately 140 tonnes of tuna, with domestic sales surpassing SBD 201 million in 2025.
Prime Minister Manele on behalf of the Government and people of Solomon Islands, conveyed appreciation to the company for its sustained contribution to the national economy, employment and community development.
He also reaffirmed the Government’s recognition of the importance of both SolTuna and NFD in advancing national development priorities.
Discussions also covered a range of operational and policy challenges, including rising fuel costs, taxation pressures, elevated production expenses, and the impact of the new Value Added Tax (VAT) regime.
Moreover, the delegation also signalled willingness to share its technical expertise and industry experience to support the proposed Bina Harbour project, opening avenues for deeper collaboration in fisheries development.
The Prime Minister in turn, re-emphasised the message of partnership and policy commitment, underlining the Government’s recognition of the fisheries sector’s strategic importance.
“The contribution of Bolton and Tri Marine to our national development is both substantial and enduring.
“Through SolTuna and National Fisheries Development, you have contributed to the national economy, generate employment, build skills, assist in education, health and sustain communities especially in Western Province,” he said.
He said the government is determined to address the legislative concerns that impact productivity, including energy and is fast-tracking reforms that are designed to deliver more reliable and affordable electricity, essential for industries such as tuna processing.
“Reaffirming the Government’s broader commitment, Prime Minister Manele stated that the National Government is working closely with provincial governments in fostering a conducive business environment, not only in Noro but across the Solomon Islands.
“The meeting highlighted a shared commitment to constructive public–private dialogue, signalling the government’s readiness to further deepen cooperation in advancing the fisheries sector,” the statement said.
Photo credit: Press Secretariat, OPMC
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